Press Releases

RIEMA Urges Travelers to Drive Cautiously Due to Forecasted Weather

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter weather advisory for all of Rhode Island from 10 p.m. Monday until 10 a.m. Tuesday. NWS is predicting 1" – 2" of snow with traces of ice possible.

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) reminds everyone that untreated roads and sidewalk may be slippery. "We expect many people to be traveling to visit family and friends for the holiday," said RIEMA Executive Director Theresa C. Murray. "We want to make sure that people arrive at their destinations safely so they can enjoy their celebrations." RIEMA reminds Rhode Islanders of the following safety tips for driving in winter weather:

• Make sure your car emergency kit has extra blankets, windshield washer fluid, a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction), and mittens/hats/scarves..
• Keep your gas tank half full.
• Install snow tires or make sure regular tires have good tread left on them.
• Keep a windshield scraper and a small broom in your car to remove snow or ice.
• Clean snow and ice from the roof of your car. If you are driving behind someone who has not cleared their car roof of snow and ice, watch for flying snow.
• Watch for black ice. Black ice is most likely to form first under bridges and overpasses, in shady spots, and at intersections.
• Keep extra space between you and the cars in front of you so you can stop safely.
• If your car begins to spin, do not slam on the brakes. Take your foot off the gas pedal and steer in the direction you want your car to go.
• If you break down or are stuck in snow, pull over to the side of the road, turn on hazard lights, and hang a distress flag from your antennae or window. (A piece of brightly colored fabric can be used for a distress flag.
• Follow recommendations from local or state officials during winter storms.